Camellia (Camellia gracilis)

Family: Theaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Camellia gracilis is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). It is in leaf all year, in flower from October to January, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

An oil is obtained from the seed. — An oil is obtained from the seed.

Habitat & North American Range

Woodlands and thickets, especially by streams at elevations of 400 - 1400 metres in Guangdong, Guangxi, Hainan and Taiwan Provinces. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)